Suspects arrested in Geleen terrorism, money laundering investigation

By Janene Pieters on November 7, 2017 - 15:10

Arrest (Stock Photo: Politie). Arrest (Stock Photo: Politie)

Two suspects were arrested in an investigation into two foundations in Geleen. They turned themselves in at a police station in Venlo at the police's request. One suspect, 38, is suspected of money laundering, participation in a criminal organization with terrorist intent, recruiting for the Syrian civil war, and financing terrorism. The other suspect, 34, is suspected of money laundering, NU.nl reports.

The investigation into the Foundation Islamic Center Westelijk Mijnstreek and the Foundation Baby Care in Geleen was launched in 2015 after the authorities received reports of suspicious transactions. According to the Public Prosecutors, the suspects are two directors, though of which foundation was not made clear. They were arrested in their personal capacity, and not for their role as directors.

The suspects lawyer identified them as 38-year-old Laarbi A. and 34-year-old Stefan Z. to 1Limburg. According to the lawyer, they are the secretary and president of the Al Houda Mosque in Geleen. The mosque falls under the Foundation Islamic Center Westelijk Mijnstreek